People who take off on cruises do so because they want to relax, enjoy themselves, and get away from their lives for a few days. They do not do so hoping to get involved in a boating accident. There was recently another fatal accident when a passenger fell off a cruise boat that is leading safety advocates to wonder: Can cruise companies be doing more to keep their passengers safe?
Falling Overboard May Be More Common Than You Think
If you assume that falling overboard is a rare occurrence, think again. An average of 21 people fall from cruises every year in the United States alone. In fact, from 2010 to 2019 there were more than 300 people reported as having fallen overboard. The sad truth is that these accidents are very frequently fatal because the person generally falls from at least a dozen stories high.
What is at Fault When a Passenger Falls Overboard?
It depends. Yes, the cruise line has a duty to protect their passengers and that duty means they must take reasonable steps to prevent these types of accidents. In the event the cruise line does not do so, they may be held liable for any damages that were caused. For example, if the cruise line knew that a guard rail was broken and did not repair it or post warnings in a timely manner.
Others who could potentially be held liable after a cruise ship accident include the cruise line, the company that is operating the cruise ship during the cruise, the company that sold the tickets to the cruise, any tour companies that are being used, or a person who directly caused the injury. Of course, in some cases it is merely an accident and no one is directly at fault.
What to Do if You Are Injured on a Cruise
You may wonder: What do I do if I am injured on a cruise? The first step is to report it to the managers on the cruise ship immediately. If possible, take photos of the area in which the accident occurred and get contact information from any eyewitnesses. Make notes about anything that occurred – you may think you will remember but shock can wipe out the specifics of the event in the days that come.
Get medical attention as soon as possible. Follow the instructions of the doctor on board. When you get home, see your own doctor and follow their instructions. Once you are safe and secure, you can contact The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker at 800-333-0000 to find out if you have grounds for a personal injury case.